Hannibal
The Carthaginian general, Hannibal is notorious for his strategic ways. Hannibal followed his father, Hamilcar, at a very young age along with his brothers. He gained his title, as general after his father’s death. He witnessed many triumphs from his father’s skills and learned from his weaknesses. His father’s army voted him as general in spite of being only 26 years of age. In his first year as a general, he strived for military success and received it in portions. Hannibal struggled to keep his army throughout the landslides, hurricanes, and snowstorms because their resources were scarce. As well as, his small amount of food that their selected army could feast upon after each battle or invasion. He appeared as a very just liberator. The Romans did not except his liberal ways so they never united. Therefore, despite Hannibal’s considerable military abilities, his actions prevented him from conquering. Hannibal was a military master because he had the determination to succeed. After Hamilcar’s death Hannibal became an excellent military leader. “Under [Hannibal’s] control the Carthaginians made large territorial advances…” (I-cias). He learned quickly how to be a leader and with the support of his brothers he was . . .
Hannibal suffered in his military career” (Walker, 165). Rome believed that delays would end in the conquering of Hannibal because of the lack of necessities there was little he could do. Hannibal experienced many challenges including battle delays little amount of military equipment and a small number of reinforcements from home. His hope had been limited at this point. “According to legend, Hamilcar had made the young Hannibal swear on a sacred altar that he would remain an enemy of Rome for life” (Walker, 164). ” His strategy was to respond quickly to these natural disasters and it helped him. In conclusion, Hannibal did not capitalize on his successes because he was never satisfied. “Hannibal needed reinforcements, which the Carthaginian government refused to furnish, and he also lacked siege weapons” (Encarta). Other military leaders knew he would not be able to handle a delay due to the lack of preparation he took for each battle. Despite the number of men falling from the army due to natural disasters he managed to recruit others. After his defeat his enemies began to discover his weakness. “…In 218, he clashed with the Roman army. His enemy, Rome, was the center of his downfall. Hannibal was crossing the Alps and was able to receive rations for a couple days.
Common topics in this essay:
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